What else? (Beginner basics)

[3of11]

I am purchasing a Canon 30D body today. I am also getting a Canon 17-85mm lens. I already own a tripod and a camera bag. What else do I need? Protective lenses? Filters?

 

[JerryPH]

In detail... what are your photographic goals?

 

[kundalini]

In general... get a Nikon instead.


Just kidding.... Congrats on your purchase.

Perhaps an external flash and surely a good quality CPL filter.

 

[3of11]

My primary focus will be taking photographs of people, children, infants, families, weddings, etc, mainly with natural light.

 

[JerryPH]

Thats not very detailed, thats a huge general range... lol

Weddings alone you would need a MINIMUM of 2 (likely closer to 3) lenses right there. An off camera flash is almost mandatory there too.

Natural light requires fast glass, as do weddings and as do fast moving kids.

Wedding needs generally go from (around) 20mm to 200mm. All at F/2.8 (or better if your wallet can afford it).

All of my lenses have protective UV filters.

That should give you a tiny start in the right direction.

 

[kundalini]

A reflector (5-in-1 maybe). Still consider the external flash (down the road) to use as a fill for removing shadows on facial features from sunlight (assuming outdoors).

 

[3of11]

What I put earlier is my goal for later down the road. I guess right now I just am looking for what to start as. I would hate to not provide my camera with protection that it needs. I will definitely get a filter. Anything else that you think I would need to just start?